Illuminate Irving: Domestic Violence Awareness

View the story from our inaugural Illuminate Irving event, held Oct. 18, 2016 on the Mandalay Canal, which features former Mayor Beth Van Duyne and former Police Chief Larry Boyd.

5:30 to 7:30 p.m. | Tuesday, Oct. 10Lanterns glowing with names of loved ones will be placed on the Mandalay Canal in remembrance of victims and survivors of domestic violence.

In the Japanese culture, the tradition of the Toro Nagashi ceremony floats lit lanterns on the water in remembrance of those who have suffered atrocities.

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the City of Irving Family Advocacy Center (FAC) will conduct a similar ceremony of remembrance for victims and survivors of domestic violence Oct. 10 on the Mandalay Canal. This event is free and open to the general public. View the event's flier.

Seeking Business Community Participation

The Family Advocacy Center seeks participation from the Irving business community to raise awareness of this event. Here are ways business owners and employees can help:

Illuminate the exterior of your building in purple for the month of October or during the week of the event - Oct. 8-14 - to show your support for victims and survivors of domestic violence. Share photos of your illumination on social media, using #IlluminateIrving in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Help us promote the event by sharing social media about the event and inviting employees, friends and family members to join in Oct. 10. Our goal is to get the word out to the community at large. FAC staff is available to provide information about domestic violence and personal safety to employees and associates.

Donations from the business community are welcome to help defray the costs of this event, such as the cost of supplies, food and restrooms. Our goal is to provide a free event, especially for victims and survivors of abuse who may be in different stages of safety and healing.

The Irving FAC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and works in partnership with the Irving Police Department. This event is not a fundraiser for the FAC; all donations go directly to the event.